Remember The Window? The big sister, The Window 2, came to New York, to the same Romanian Cultural Institute and it created a frenzy. From May 23rd to 29th, The Window 2 played every 20 minutes, between 8-10 pm. Given that passersby can literally stumble into the play, the ambiguity of the show spikes even more interest.
Along with the remarkable performance by the team of actors, the fantastic décor, alluding to a world of fantasy, stole the limelight.
I met with stage designer Daniela Codarcea Kamiliotis (also an illustrious artist and a respected Ralph Lauren Senior VP); she radiates with an incredible sense of creativity, originality and artistic flair. It is not hard to understand how she managed to transform RCINY’s storefront gallery into a fantasyland, accommodating playwright Saviana Stanescu’s 4 ALICE play.
The first room, of a blatant green, gives the impression of a character’s trance occurring.
The second installment of The Window, created and directed by Ana Mărgineanu for RCINY, is without a doubt, unlike anything you have ever seen in NYC. The innovative performance-design project involves engaging in the 20 minute long play – as seen from an outside window – for as long as you wish.
Although 4 ALICE unfolds in the space of two adjacent rooms, and their respective windows, most of the action takes place in the second window. Not being able to actually hear what the actors are saying makes the viewer focus on the visual component – the décor and the costumes.
Mrs. Kamiliotis was not only in charge with the ethereal set design, but she also designed the stunning costumes and amusing masks. An outstanding scenographer and fashion designer, Kamiliotis perfectly envisioned Stanescu’s dynamic play.
Rich in accessories, the second room is a whimsical world adorned with refined pastels, bright pinks, vintage touches and summery linens. Joyously expressive for Alice’s world, beautiful moments are hanging in the air: frilly drapes, playful feathers, lush furs, a gorgeous umbrella, white paper lanters, Old World hats and white romantic dresses.
Following the play, where I carefully examined and delightfully relished the set design, I attended the private reception organized by RCINY. Many thanks to Ms. Director Corina Suteu for the kind invitation, and for a wonderful time. It was an honor to meet the esteemed Mrs. Kamiliotis and discuss her life work and passion for stage design, fashion and art, as well as interact with the amazingly talented actors – all while enjoying delicious Romanian hors d’oeuvres.
For those of you who haven’t seen it yet, The Window 2 has added new dates: 5-7th June and 12-18th June. Don’t miss it!
